Use of intravenous hyoscine butylbromide (Buscopan) during gastrointestinal endoscopy

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has recently circulated a Drug Safety Update regarding the risk of serious adverse events following the use of intravenous hyoscine butylbromide (Buscopan) in patients with underlying cardiac disease.1 Buscopan is commonly used during endoscopic procedures. It induces smooth muscle relaxation and reduces spasm in the gastrointestinal tract. It is used during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and small bowel enteroscopy to reduce contraction and aid mucosal visualisation.2 During endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, it is used to facilitate access to the common bile duct during cannulation of the ampulla of Vater.3 During colonoscopy, it is …